Early Childhood Education (ECE-SPED) is a specialized program within the Division of Special Services that is designed to meet the unique needs of children with disabilities or developmental delays. ECE-SPED is intended to help these children develop the skills they need to be successful in school and in life, as well as to support their families.

ECE-SPED programs are typically available to children from birth to age five and may be provided in a variety of settings, including home-based programs, early intervention centers, preschools, and child care centers. The goal of these programs is to provide a comprehensive, individualized approach to early intervention that addresses the specific needs of each child.

ECE-SPED programs use a multidisciplinary team approach that may include special education teachers, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other specialists as needed. This team works together to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for each child that outlines specific goals and objectives based on the child’s strengths and areas of need.

ECE-SPED programs may also provide family support services, such as parent training and counseling, to help families better understand their child’s disability and learn how to support their child’s development. These services may also help families access community resources and navigate the complex special education system.

The ECE-SPED is an important component of ECE that serves to ensure that all children have access to high-quality early intervention services that meet their individual needs and help them achieve their full potential.